Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, nestled in the French department of Bouches-du-Rhôneis a popular destination for lovers of Provencal authenticity. Located in the heart of the Alpillesthis small town combines heritage, nature and country's culture. It's an ideal starting point for discovering Provence and its surrounding wonders.

Where is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is located in the south of France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, more precisely in the Bouches-du-Rhône department. Located 20 kilometers south of Avignon and 25 kilometers north of Arles, this Provencal commune is ideally positioned between the Alpilles mountains and the Crau plain.

Surrounding municipalities

Saint-Rémy is surrounded by several picturesque towns that are well worth a visit. These include :

Les Baux-de-Provence famous for its château and Carrières de Lumières.
Eygalières A perched village with a breathtaking view of the Alpilles.
Maillane The birthplace of Provencal poet Frédéric Mistral.
Tarascon and Fontvieille The town's rich medieval heritage.

These authentic villages enhance Saint-Rémy's appeal and offer an unforgettable Provencal experience.

Monuments and sites to visit in and around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Saint-Rémy has a rich historical and architectural heritage. Among the must-see sitesyou'll find :

Monuments in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Antiques and the Glanum site A former Gallo-Roman site with remains of temples, forums and monuments such as the Triumphal Arch and the Mausoleum of Julius.
Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery famous for being the home of painter Vincent van Gogh, who produced some of his most famous works here.
The Estrine Museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a section devoted to Van Gogh.
The Collegiate Church of Saint-Martin A 19th-century neoclassical church dominating the town center.

Nearby sites

Château des Baux-de-Provence Perched on a rocky outcrop, this château offers incredible panoramic views over the Alpilles valley.
Les Carrières de Lumières A unique venue where monumental works of art are projected in a former quarry.

Hiking and nature around Saint-Rémy

The Alpilles region offers hiking trails ideal for discovering typical Provencal landscapes. Among the most popular hikes:

The Alpilles trail A hike that starts from Saint-Rémy and offers breathtaking views of the town, the Alpilles massif and the surrounding plain.
The Glanum circuit in Les Baux-de-Provence A walk that links these two historic sites through unspoilt countryside.
The Transhumance Trail A historic route once used by shepherds to lead their flocks to pasture.

Cultural and sporting activities in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

In addition to its natural and historical heritage, Saint-Rémy offers a wide range of activities.cultural and sporting activities.

Cultural activities

Les Rencontres Musicales de Saint-Rémy The annual classical music festival attracts artists of international renown.
The Provencal market Every Wednesday morning, this market offers an explosion of flavors and colors with its local products, perfect for an immersion in Provencal culture.

Sports activities

Cyclotourism The Alpilles region, with its hilly roads, is ideal for cycling enthusiasts.
Riding A number of equestrian centers around Saint-Rémy offer horseback rides through the Provencal countryside.
Climbing and via ferrata in the Alpilles for the more adventurous.

Where to eat in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

Visit Provencal gastronomy is in the spotlight in Saint-Rémy. Restaurants offer authentic local cuisine, often using fresh local produce. Here are just a few well-known addresses:

L'Estagnol A traditional restaurant offering Provencal dishes in a charming setting.
Yvan's Table The restaurant: located in a Provencal farmhouse, this restaurant offers refined, creative cuisine.
Le Bistrot de Saint-Rémy A friendly place to enjoy southern dishes.

Where to stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

Saint-Rémy has a varied hotel offeringWe offer a wide range of accommodation options, from charming hotels to authentic Provencal farmhouses. Here are a few addresses to discover:

Hotel de l'Image A 4-star hotel in the heart of Saint-Rémy, with a superb garden.
Le Château des Alpilles A luxury hotel set in a wooded park away from the city center, perfect for a peaceful stay.
Sous les Figuiers Hotel An intimate hotel with rooms overlooking a garden filled with fig trees.

Crafts and designers in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

The city is also renowned for its crafts and its many creators. You'll find :

Pottery and ceramics typical of Provence, often made by hand.
Wrought-iron objects and wooden furniture carved in the traditional style.
Artists' studioswhere local painters and sculptors exhibit works inspired by the surrounding landscape.

A few words about the department and the region

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is located in the Bouches-du-Rhônea department renowned for its cultural and natural diversity. The region Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur is famous for its unique landscapes, combining mountains, sea and countryside. It is home to such emblematic towns as Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and Nice.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

The best time to visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is between April and September, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How do I get to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?

Saint-Rémy is easily accessible by car from Avignon or Arles. The nearest train stations are Avignon (TGV) and Arles.

Are there any guided tours in Saint-Rémy?

Yes, several guided tours are organized in Saint-Rémy, notably around the Glanum site and the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery.

What local markets are there in Saint-Rémy?

Saint-Rémy's main market is held on Wednesday mornings in Place de la République, featuring local produce and Provencal crafts.

Can you visit the Roman sites around Saint-Rémy?

Yes, the Antiques from Glanum are open to visitors. This is a major archaeological site with impressive Roman remains.

Conclusion

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is an ideal destination for lovers of Provence. With its historic monuments, natural landscapes and cultural activities, this town offers a wide range of activities. unforgettable experience to all visitors. To find out more about the history of the town and its surroundings, visit this dedicated page on Wikipedia.